Meaning & Definition of word "Helium"

noun:

• 1. A chemical element (He) with atomic number 2; a colorless, tasteless, odorless, inert gas that is the second lightest and second most abundant element in the observable universe, often used in balloons and as a coolant.
  • Example: The party was filled with colorful balloons, all floating thanks to helium.
• 2. A non-renewable resource that is used in various applications, including MRIs and scientific research.
  • Example: Helium is essential for operating MRI machines in hospitals.
• 3. A gas that is lighter than air and can cause voices to sound high-pitched when inhaled.
  • Example: After inhaling helium from the balloon, her voice sounded comically squeaky.
• 4. A crucial component in the fusion process in stars, particularly in the sun.
  • Example: Helium is produced in massive quantities through nuclear fusion in the sun's core.
• 5. An element used in scientific applications such as cryogenics and in the production of certain semiconductors.
  • Example: Researchers use helium for cooling superconductors in their experiments.